Hedysarum alpinum, commonly known as Alpine Sweetvetch, is a perennial herb that is part of the circumpolar flora in the Northern Hemisphere. It typically grows up to 28 inches tall and produces several erect stems from a thick, woody taproot. The compound leaves are made up of small leaflets, and the plant bears pink or pale purple flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bumblebees and honeybees. Alpine Sweetvetch is native to a variety of northern habitats, including alpine and subalpine zones, boreal forests, tundra margins, and river floodplains, where it contributes to the ecosystem by providing food for wildlife.

Alpine Sweetvetch is valued for its hardiness in cold climates and its ability to thrive in a range of soil types, from moist to well-drained, in full sun to partial shade. It is not commonly cultivated but can be used in native plant gardens or restoration projects in its native range. The plant’s historical use by Native Alaskan peoples as a food source is notable, though caution is advised due to the presence of L-canavanine. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance and is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it is not suitable for consumption in large quantities or raw due to the potential toxicity of L-canavanine.CC BY-SA 4.0